Grinch pinched, kicked out of Wildwood

 

PRESS RELEASE

WILDWOOD – He’s green and mean with a mile-long rap sheet. But in Wildwood, the Grinch was given a one-way ticket back to Whoville – courtesy of the Wildwood police department.

Sponsored by the Wildwood police department, the Dec. 13 Pinch the Grinch 5K Run and 1 Mile Fun Walk offered athletes a chance to make their way down the boardwalk to help bring a merry Christmas to needy children throughout Five Mile Island.

The race helps support the vision of John Lynch, Wildwoods Convention Center’s director of sales and entertainment. Lynch’s foundation, Lunch with Lynch, serves many families in the Wildwoods. 

A holiday offshoot of the Lunch with Lynch program, “The Lynch who Stole Christmas from the Grinch,” provides toys, gift cards and warm coats to needy families throughout Five Mile Island.

Prior to the start of the race, Wildwood police nabbed the Grinch as he attempted to slither through the pack of racers as they stood at their marks outside the Wildwoods Convention Center.

“With more than 100 witnesses, it was a slam dunk arrest,” Lynch said as the Grinch, in handcuffs, was placed inside a patrol car for a trip back to the bus station.

In these tough economic times families in need have difficulty in making Christmas magic for their children, according to the event organizers. 

That’s when the Lunch with Lynch Foundation steps in to make sure all local children can open a present on Christmas morning. Prior to the race runners and walkers filled a room with toys that will be placed beneath the Christmas trees of families in need.

Wildwood Police Capt. Robert Regalbuto presented Lynch with a check for $2,000 that will be used to purchase gift cards to local supermarkets as well as warm coats for families.

“John Lynch has always done good things for the people of this community,” said Regalbuto. “The Wildwood Police Department wanted to help John with this event.”